Landlords of Britain’s most southerly bar and restaurant have announced with a ‘heavy heart’ they will be closing the pub's doors this week for the last time.

Adam, Dee and Nick, landlords of The Witchball at The Lizard, announced to its customers via the pub's Facebook page on Sunday that due to impacting factors they would be closing to the public from 11 pm on Sunday, February 19.

The announcement said: "It is with a very heavy heart that we are sorry to say we are closing our doors after 17 years serving the community (literally).

“Sadly, many factors have impacted this industry making it impossible to maintain and staff our establishment.

“Over the years we have enjoyed working with our wonderful staff, community members, local customers, various vibrant visitors and many holidaymakers that have visited our pub and, of course, our beer festivals, where we have raised over £20,000 for local charities.

“We will miss everyone in the community that visited for a day, a week or for years.

“We apologise for the short notice, but times being as they are, we have to use our limited time left to close up.

“Our doors will be closed to the public on 11pm February 19 and we will be running the stock out over the few days beforehand, so why not come in for a final drink or two,

“Thank you all once again, stay well and stay safe.”

However, the pub won’t be going quietly. On February 17 the pub will be 'going out with a bang,' according to  Adam, Dee and Nick.

The closing night will include a final Witchball quiz followed by DJ Matthew Pascoe providing customers with music from 8.30pm.

Customers will also be able to enjoy a last drink at a discounted price. Draft beers and ciders will cost £3, with spirits, wines and soft drinks also discounted.

The pub is named after a hollow sphere of glass known as a 'witch ball'. Historically, witch balls were hung in cottage windows in 17th and 18th century England to ward off evil spirits, witches, evil spells, ill fortune, and bad spirits.